Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed willingness to consider all options for a peace deal with Kyiv, contingent on the realities on the ground, while criticizing Western policies and NATO enlargement. Speaking at a press conference following the BRICS summit, Putin laid out Russia's position on a range of international issues, including relations with the European Union, the United States, and the situation in Ukraine. According to Burkina Information Agency, Putin attributed destabilization within the European Union to the flawed policies of European elites, which he argued have led to deteriorating conditions on the continent. He dismissed attempts to blame Russia for these issues, suggesting they were efforts to deflect responsibility for poor economic and domestic political decisions. On military operations, Putin asserted that the Russian army is advancing along the entire line of contact, with specific mention of operations in the Kursk region, where approximately 2,000 Ukrainian service men are reportedly surrounded. He linked provocations in the Kursk area to attempts to influence domestic politics and the U.S. election campaign. Addressing relations with the United States, Putin stated that the future of Russian-American relations hinges on the actions of the United States, particularly in the context of the upcoming presidential election. He also acknowledged former U.S. President Donald Trump's recent comments about resolving the conflict in Ukraine, suggesting Trump expressed a genuine desire to end the hostilities. On the subject of Ukraine, Putin emphasized that all BRICS countries are committed to resolving the conflict through peaceful means. He claimed that negotiations are not currently desired by the Kyiv leadership, partly due to the implications for martial law and potential presidential elections. Putin also touched on the Middle East, stating Russia's aim to facilitate conditions for a settlement through compromise. He criticized NATO enlargement, arguing it undermines Rus sian security and is unfair, and reiterated Russia's commitment to altering this situation. Turning to global economic dynamics, Putin accused Western countries of exploiting their dominant position in international finance, consuming more than they produce, a situation Russia seeks to change through BRICS. He highlighted attempts to engage with Western nations, which he claimed have sought to position Russia as merely a raw material supplier, compromising its sovereignty. Furthermore, Putin criticized Western demands for African countries to establish costly environmentally friendly production facilities, describing this as a form of neocolonialism that fosters dependency on Western technologies and loans with onerous terms. Regarding BRICS, Putin declared the organization open to countries that share its values, noting that several nations have expressed interest in full participation. He emphasized Russia's efforts, as the chair of the association, to facilitate the integration of new members into the B RICS family. Source: Burkina Information Agency